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Learn how Lauren Voyles provides "excellency in chaplaincy service to a family suffering from the loss of their loved one in a traumatic situation."

Only six months into her UVA Health University Medical Center role, a new chaplain has earned the BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award, which recognizes team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Monica Goldsmith, MDN, RN, ACM. Director, Care Management, and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Office, surprised Lauren Voyles, M.Div., with the presentation.

Cheryl Martin, MBA, Health Unit Coordinator, Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), nominated Voyles:

"I walked into a sad situation — we had a patient on the unit who was going to be an organ donor. An honor walk was requested, and large numbers of family members came in escorted nicely by a Life Net nurse to the patient's room to say their goodbyes.

"The chaplain was requested to come for the honor walk. I have seen more than a few honor walks, and I am always in tears, too. This honor walk had a different aura. Chaplain Lauren Voyles took the lead and her voice rang out so clear and strong. She was reading the 23rd Psalm out loud, walking in front like the shepherd leading the flock to green pastures.

"It was quite comforting and quite different from any honor walk I had ever seen. In her notes, she stated that she comforted the siblings, cousins, stepmother, and many others in attendance with both Psalm 23 and Psalm 121. Her ministry during the honor walk was truly outstanding. I commend her for her leadership and ability to handle such a traumatic situation with aplomb, grace, love, and authority.

"I nominate Lauren Voyles for the BEE Award for her excellency in chaplaincy service to this family suffering from the loss of their loved one in a traumatic situation."

Know a Deserving Team Member?

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.